The Inspector General of Police has taken a significant step toward reforming Nigeria’s security architecture by submitting a comprehensive framework for the establishment of State Police to the Deputy President of the Senate.

This development marks a key milestone in the ongoing efforts to decentralize policing in the country and address persistent security challenges across various states. The framework was presented during a courtesy visit by members of a special steering committee set up by the Nigeria Police Force to the Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin in Abuja.

The eight member committee which was inaugurated on the fourth of March 2026 by the Inspector General of Police Olatunji Disu is chaired by Professor Olu Ogunsakin. Its primary mandate is to develop a workable operational structure for State Police that balances effective local security with national cohesion. The committee is expected to review policing models from within and outside Nigeria, assess community needs, identify potential risks, and propose safeguards against abuse.

During the meeting the committee briefed Senator Barau who also chairs the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on its progress and sought legislative input to strengthen the final report. Senator Barau assured Nigerians that their concerns regarding the proposed State Police would be thoroughly addressed emphasizing the need for strong mechanisms that guarantee accountability prevent political misuse and build public trust.

He commended the Inspector General of Police for aligning this initiative with the security goals of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a proactive move to strengthen internal security. The Deputy Senate President further noted that any framework must inspire confidence among citizens while ensuring coordination between federal and state policing structures.

The push for State Police has gained renewed momentum in recent times as stakeholders seek solutions to rising insecurity. Proponents argue that decentralizing policing will improve response times, enhance community intelligence gathering, and allow states to better tackle local threats. Critics however have raised fears of potential abuse by state governments and risks to national unity.

This presentation to the Senate represents an important collaborative effort between the executive security agencies and the legislature. It is expected to feed into the ongoing constitutional review process which aims to provide the legal backing for State Police. The committee has a tight timeline to submit its recommendations paving the way for further deliberations and possible amendments to the 1999 Constitution.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with multifaceted security issues the successful implementation of a well crafted State Police framework could usher in a new era of more responsive and effective law enforcement, nationwide.